Within the Catholic Church, opinions differ on the conduct of the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While some members of the Catholic hierarchy question the impartiality and independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), other priests express their distrust of the electoral register. This situation creates tensions within the church and raises questions about the true nature of the political involvement of some clergy.
In correspondence addressed to the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Apostolic Nunciature, Father Kabasele Lumbala François of the diocese of Mbuji-Mayi accuses certain members of the Catholic hierarchy, including Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo and Donatien Nshole, of compromise the values of Catholicism for the benefit of political interests. In particular, he denounces the control exercised by CENCO over the institutions of the Republic, as well as the judgments passed on magistrates and the CENI.
Father Kabasele also questions the trust placed in the electoral register, highlighting the supposed links between the president of the CENI and a candidate for the presidential election. He denounces these suspicions of tribalism and warns against the harmful consequences of such a polarization of society.
However, he recognizes that the Catholic Church has the right to intervene in the management of the country in accordance with its social doctrine, canon law and conciliar documents. This raises the question of the balance between the Church’s legitimate political engagement and respect for its spiritual role.
This divergence of opinion within the Catholic Church reflects the tensions and political divisions that cross the country. While some members of the clergy openly express their concerns about the transparency of the electoral process, others affirm their confidence in the institutions in place.
It is essential that these debates and discussions take place in an atmosphere of mutual respect and the search for peaceful solutions. The Catholic Church, as an influential and respected institution, has a crucial role to play in promoting peace and reconciliation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
It is essential that religious leaders demonstrate wisdom and discernment in their positions, avoiding contributing to the exacerbation of tensions or the dissemination of hate speech. Priority must always be given to unity and the search for the common good.
This situation also highlights the importance of a transparent, independent and credible electoral process. It is essential that the CENI and the responsible institutions ensure that all necessary measures are taken to guarantee free and fair elections, in accordance with democratic principles..
In conclusion, the differences of opinion within the Catholic Church on the electoral process in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlight the tensions and challenges facing the country. It is essential that these debates take place in a spirit of mutual respect and the search for peaceful solutions. The Catholic Church, as a major actor in Congolese society, has a crucial role to play in promoting peace and democracy.